| dc.description.abstract | The study aims at contributing to the understanding of the dynamics of ethnic relations especially the nature of such relations among the various groups in the Rwenzori region. Fieldwork was conducted in the region, adjacent to the Rwenzori Mountains, home very many ethnic groups. The extent of relations between these groups was studied; and by use of interviews; field observations, locus group discussions and documentary sources, the theory and practice of ethnic relations were highlighted.
In three districts of Kasese. Kabarole (Fort Portal) and Bundibugyo live the Bakonzo, Hasongora, Banyabindi. Hanyagwaki, Baholhu. Hakunda. Bahunde. Batooro, Babwisi. Vonorna and B,IS\\ d and a host of minority groups, The: relations among these people, together with newly migrating groups such as Bakigu. Bafumbira and
Banyarwanda, are becoming a more complex and real issue worthy of investigation. The immediate history of the region has seen harmonious ethnic relations punctuated by violent disharmonious conflicts at both inter and intra-ethnic levels. The extent, to which, these are associated to access and control of resources and, resulting from the throes of social change is the subject of this study.
Through the investigation the constructive factors underlying integration or conflict arc generic but often particular. Analysis of the approaches so far undertaken to address the pertinent questions reveals this inadequacy and yet disharmony infringes on national and regional development. Information was generated across gender, age, education, ethnic belonging, religion and socio-political status, the study is intended to provoke deeper interest in ethnic relations, especially in areas of resource scarcity but inhabited by numerous ethnic groups.
Chapter one is an introductory chapter, which deals with the underlying concepts in ethnic relations and justifies the study and reveals how much literature is available on ethnic relations at least in Uganda. The second chapter deals with the origins of ethnic groups and the evolution of ethnicity and ethnic consciousness and how they have manifested in the Rwenzori region. It also delves into the establishment of the kingdom of Toro and its impact on ethnic relations,
Chapter three deals with the colonial era in the region and how ethnic groups reacted to the introduction of religion adjusted to the colonialism and how it affected ethnic relations; while, chapter four deals with ethnic relations in the postcolonial era, and throws more light on the Rwenzururu Movement and the relationship it shared with subsequent political rebellions in the region. The fifth chapter concludes the study with an in-depth analysis of ethnic relations both in a particular (regional) and wider (national) context, exposing the current dimensions and perspectives of the dynamics of ethnic relations. With information gathered across the region, suggestions are made for ways that could make harmonious ethnic relations a permanent feature in the region. | en_US |
